MOFFAT TAKADIWA

Moffat Takadiwa lives and works in Harare, Zimbabwe.

 

Renowned for his intricate and materially rich practice, Takadiwa transforms post-consumer waste — such as computer keyboards, bottle tops, toothbrushes, and toothpaste tubes — into lush, densely layered wall-based sculptures and installations that recall tapestry and textile traditions. Through these meticulously composed works, he gives discarded materials a renewed sense of value and beauty, reflecting on issues of excess, consumption, and global exchange.

 

A prominent voice among the post-independence generation of artists in Zimbabwe, Takadiwa’s practice is deeply rooted in his Korekore heritage while addressing broader social, political, and environmental concerns. His work explores the complex legacies of colonialism and capitalism, drawing attention to patterns of inequality and the material residues of contemporary consumer culture.

 

Takadiwa is also the founder of Mbare Art Space in Harare, an influential creative hub and community-driven initiative that provides a platform for emerging artists. Through this space, he plays a central role in mentoring a new generation of Zimbabwean artists and has established what is considered the world’s first artistic centre dedicated to repurposing discarded materials.

Takadiwa has exhibited extensively both in Zimbabwe and internationally. Recent highlights include his participation in the 36th São Paulo Biennial in Brazil in 2025 and representing Zimbabwe at the 60th Venice Biennale in 2024.